Bel Air tow operator Keith Allen Rhew, 45, died in a work-related towing accident on Friday, April 3. His wife, Erica, and their children, Luke and Olivia, both elementary-school students, are now leaning on friends, coworkers and neighbors for support. Funeral and visitation are set for Friday, April 10, in Bel Air, and an online fundraiser has already drawn hundreds of contributions.
Family and Funeral Plans
As noted in the obituary from McComas Family Funeral Homes, Rhew was born Jan. 8, 1981, and died April 3, 2026, confirming he was 45 at the time of his death. The funeral home lists visitation from 2 to 4 p.m., followed by a 4 p.m. funeral service at Bel Air Church of the Nazarene on April 10.
Community Fundraiser Nears Goal
In the days since the accident, Rhew's sister, Nicki Whitman, has organized a fundraiser that has pulled in $28,302 toward a $30,000 goal to help cover funeral expenses and household bills, according to the family's GoFundMe page. The campaign lists Fairview, Md., as the organizer's location and shows roughly 160 donations so far.
School Community Mourns
At Forest Hill Elementary, the PTA shared that Luke, a fifth grader, and Olivia, a first grader, had lost their father, according to Daily Voice. The outlet reported tributes from friends and fellow tow-industry workers who described Rhew as a hardworking, faith-driven man known for stepping in to help others.
Neighbors and Coworkers Remember
Rhew's sister called him “an incredibly hard-working, devoted and proud father, loving husband, and loyal friend,” according to the outlet. Coworkers said his readiness to respond on short notice made him a familiar and trusted presence in the local towing community.
